How to Choose the Right Paint Sheen or Finish

HIGH GLOSS FINISH

Surface: Cabinets, doors and window trim where surfaces can take a lot of abuse. 
Finish: Glossier paints reflect like and imperfections. Spend more time sanding and prepping to get the surface smooth. 
Rooms: Family room, hallway, foyer or kids’ rooms

SATIN FINISH

Surface: High traffic surfaces that you want to have easy-to-clean, scrub-able walls.
Finish: Not shiny, high durability with a lower luster. 
Rooms: Dining room, guest bedroom, living room

EGGSHELL FINISH

Surface: Lower traffic surfaces.
Finish: More luster than Flat or Matte paint finishes
Rooms: Areas that get only the occasional dings and scuffs.

FLAT & MATTE

Surfaces: Best for ceilings because it hides imperfections by not reflecting any light.
Finish: More pigment in the paint so you can cover a surface in one coat and hide more flaws.